Two talented young ice skaters are set to dance their way to the top after being awarded much-needed support from a sports development scheme.

Amelia Allen and Paige Leigh Elliot, both aged 10, spend many hours training on the ice each week at Lammas Leisure Centre, which is owned by Ashfield District Council and operated in partnership with Everyone Active.

The duo have been awarded Talented Athlete Funding from Nottinghamshire County Council.

In addition to receiving extra funding, the skaters will become official Sporting Ambassadors for Nottinghamshire, attending prestigious award nights and events to promote their sport.

Coach Jamie Geere, who teaches both skaters at Lammas Leisure Centre, said: “Amelia and Paige are great role models for young athletes.

“Their dedication and work ethic is amazing for such a young age.

“Both girls started skating on the Skate UK programme at Lammas Leisure Centre and have continued to progress.

“They show great potential within the sport and I couldn’t be any more proud of them.”

Figure skater Paige, of Sutton, has also been recognised as a Sporting Champion by Everyone Active.

Now in its third year, the Sporting Champion scheme provides talented sportsmen and women with the facilities and funds needed to support their training.

Over the past three years, Everyone Active’s Sporting Champions has invested more than £500,000 to help more than 700 athletes achieve success.